New Zealand has some wonderful camping spots throughout the country – but it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with these safety tips when camping outdoors this summer:

• Camping appliances are mostly designed for outside use.
• Never use outdoor gas appliances indoors or in enclosed spaces such as tents, annexes, and caravans, and especially not anywhere near where people sleep.
• Never use home-made appliances or connections.
• Check your appliance regularly or ask a licensed gasfitter to check it is in good working order.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Ensure all gas connections are done up tightly.
• Regularly check gas connections for leaks using soapy water – find out more about how to do this(external link)
• Camping cookers need to be used correctly.
• Ensure the trivet is the right way up and don’t use over-sized cooking vessels.
• Do not use appliances if they don’t appear to be working correctly or are giving off a smell.
• If your appliance is malfunctioning – stop using it!
• Never throw empty canisters in the fire.
• Keep appliances in good condition.
• Give your flame room to burn – it should touch no more than the bottom of the pot.